To the Lebanese Young Generation

I am neither a journalist nor a blogger, nor do I write articles regularly. I just woke up today with the desire to share some modest advice with you, my country's young people. Why? Because I communicate with many of you daily and have billions of conversations about professions and the future. I will keep it short and comprehensive. I promise.

1. Please, I beg you, do not select the major that others have recommended or in which your neighbor excels, the first one that was presented to you, or the one in which your friend can provide support. When you choose a major, you are making a decision that will affect you for the rest of your life. Read about the various majors and what's required in the market on a national and global level, and then read your thoughts to find out what you're most enthusiastic about and pick accordingly. I'm sure there's something out there that was built just for you and is just waiting for you to go get it.

2. When it comes to promoting yourself, your social media platforms, LinkedIn page, and CV all play a significant part in informing others about who you are, what you do, and what you are passionate about. You can't be 21 and seeking employment and not be on Linkedin, or have a Linkedin with merely your name, which you also started without capital letters, if you know what I mean.

3. When it comes to how you can increase your skills and knowledge, I need your attention. Schools and institutions in Lebanon may not always provide us with the necessary skills and information for the future. I said always because I didn't want to be harsh or criticize the few institutions that made an effort to stay updated. As a result, you must do the exercise on your own. Enroll in extra online courses related to your future ambitions provided by overseas colleges. Participate in workshops and learn from them. Apply for internships, mentorships, memberships, volunteering opportunities, and anything else that comes your way, and make the most of it. Attend events, this allows you to meet new people, network with them, and learn from them. And now comes the cliché question: "How do I find all this information?" My answer: "Just like you know when your favorite shop is having a sale or when your favorite singer is performing, you follow the accounts of the organizations you are interested in on social media and read their postings." For instance, if the United Nations in Lebanon has an opening for a volunteer position, they will not advertise it anywhere else than on their platforms.

There is nothing, absolutely nothing, that you can't achieve. However, no major accomplishment in life has come without effort and hard work. Know where to spend your efforts, and you will reap the benefits in the end.